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Germs. You can’t see them but they sure can see you. The sneaky little buggers seem to thrive despite your best efforts to keep them in check. At this time of year in particular, they’re lurking, ready to attack.

Ever wondered what areas of your house are riddled with germs? Watch the video below and find out.

Good news, bad news

First, the good news. The body’s immune system is great at fending off nasties and will step up to protect you most of the time. The bad news is, we’re outnumbered! Bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa multiply by the trillions each day, and even surfaces that look perfectly clean could be harbouring potentially harmful germs.

You don’t need to become obsessive-compulsive about eradicating every living microorganism, especially since doing so also kills off the good guys that help build immunity against illness.

But you do need to pay attention to personal hygiene and certain spots around the house you may have previously overlooked.

To win the war on germs, make sure you have rubber gloves, water, a good all-purpose cleaner, disinfecting/antibacterial wipes, bleach, paper towels, sponges, cleaning rags and distilled vinegar.

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Wow, germs lurk there?

We have the usual suspects covered when it comes to cleaning – the toilet, bath, shower, kitchen countertops and floors. But there are other places that are prime breeding grounds for bugs. So, at least once a week, give the following things the once-over with antibacterial wipes or a cleaning agent.

• Phones, e-book readers, iPads, iPods and any other devices you tote around with you.
• Remote controls and computer keyboards.
• Cupboard/fridge/microwave door handles, light switches, taps (kitchen and bathroom taps daily).
• Handbag straps, wallets, purses, keys.

Tips for staying healthy

Don’t re-use handkerchiefs or tissues, and never leave used tissues lying around. After blowing your nose, remember to wash your hands or use a hand sanitiser.

• Don’t sneeze or cough into your hands. Use the crook of your elbow, and teach your kids to do the same.
• Replace your toothbrush as soon as you recover from a cold or flu.
• Throw out sponges, cloths and dish rags every couple of weeks. In between times, soak them in a bleach solution.
• Consider using hot water for laundry, especially tea towels, sheets, towels and underwear.
• Wipe the barrels of your washer and dryer with disinfecting wipes every few loads, and run a bleach cycle every now and then. Ditto the dishwasher.

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